‘Our priority is to build our technological know-how and to show that Nexter offers a full range of medium calibre weaponry and related ammunition, an artillery system with ammunition as well as armoured vehicle family ranging from APC to IFV’
What are your current programmes in India across services, including the helicopter mounted guns?
Nexter is providing ammunition to all three services of the Indian armed forces. Additionally, as brought out by you, the THL 20 is the weapon of choice for all versions of the ALH and LCH helicopter. Nexter is prepared to participate in any programme where it matches with existing portfolios.
What is the update on the proposed Caesar MGS programme?
No further input has been provided by the user with regards to the MGS programme, we have been given to understand that it is likely to be revived in the near future. We look forward to participate in the programme
How is Trajan coming up? Has it been demonstrated to the user?
As Trajan is currently under trials it would not advisable to comment on the programme.
India has approved a proposal for manufacturing select ammunition for the army and the RFP has been issued. Does this interest Nexter? What types of ammunition can you offer?
The existing requirement would be of interest to any manufacturer of ammunition. However, it must be understood that most of the requirement is for erstwhile Warsaw Pact ammunition which would be available from earlier Eastern Bloc countries. Nexter is closely examining the possibility to manufacture those categories available in its portfolios with an Indian partner.
Do you think TITUS can have a market in India?
In India a vehicle like the TITUS would be of immense use in the urban and rural counter insurgency environment. It is for the user to decide the sort of vehicle they would like. Nexter would be happy to actively participate in any activity relating to assisting potential users in taking a decision on their requirement.
What opportunities are you looking at in India in the near future?
Our priority is to build our technological know-how and to show that Nexter offers a full range of medium calibre weaponry and related ammunition, an artillery system with ammunition as well as armoured vehicle family ranging from APC to IFV.
We would like to show our intention to collaborate in the development of the Indian defence sector by complying with the ‘Make in India’ policy. We want to show the Indian industry our willingness to explore with them the terms of a partnership to meet the need of the Indian ministry of defence (MoD).
Will Trajan or Caesar be displayed at DefExpo?
Though we would have liked to display various items of equipment, especially the Caesar, shortage of time and logistics constraint have denied us this opportunity. However, our team will be attending with suitable material to project both equipment among others.